This one-day workshop will give you a solid overview of many of the key topics relating to gems and gemmology, covering scientific aspects of the subject, the journey of a gemstone and the practical side of gem properties and identification. You will learn to use some of the main gemmologist’s tools and have a chance to examine a wide range of gemstones.
The general areas that we look at are:
- General Introduction
- The World of Gemstones
- Properties & Identification
- Grading & Buying
This course is suitable for complete beginners to the subject and will also interest those with some previous knowledge, such as jewellery makers who want to learn more about the materials they use.
The main topics covered are:
- Gemmological science
- Gemstone formation
- Gem basics & terminology
- Types of gem material - inorganic / organic /synthetics / simulants
- Treatments
- Physical and optical properties (overview)
- Diamond producers & mining
- Sources of coloured gemstones & gem mining
- Artisanal mining case study (Sri Lanka) – process, structure, traditions
- Gem identification
- Gemstone properties - rough and faceted
- Inclusions - examples of typical inclusions
- Tools & instruments - descriptions and usage
- Practical tasks for gem identification
- Gem grading and valuation - the factors that affect prices for diamonds and coloured gemstones
- Buying tips
The course will be followed by an ethical gemstone sale on Sunday 28th September 10am - 2pm in the Jewellery School.